Effect of Virtual Reality on Pain and Anxiety During Arteriovenous Fistula Cannulation in Hemodialysis Patients

Overview

This study aims to determine the effect of virtual reality (VR) goggles used during arteriovenous fistula (AVF) cannulation in hemodialysis patients on pain and anxiety levels. The study is designed as a parallel-group randomized controlled trial and will be conducted with 50 patients receiving treatment at a dialysis center. Participants will be randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=25) and a control group (n=25). Patients in the experimental group will be shown visual-auditory content via VR goggles during AVF needle insertion, while the control group will receive routine care. Data will be collected using the Demographic Information Form, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the State Anxiety Inventory (SAI). Statistical analyses will include appropriate comparative and correlational tests to evaluate differences between groups and relationships between variables.

After generating the randomization list for participant allocation, the study materials will be prepared, including informed consent forms, the Descriptive Characteristics Form, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the State Anxiety Inventory (SAI). Participants will be assigned to experimental and control groups according to the randomization list. In the experimental group, virtual reality intervention will be applied during AVF needle insertion, while the control group will receive standard care procedures. To ensure standardization of the cannulation procedure, all patients in both groups will be cannulated using a 16-gauge arterial and venous needle, inserted at a 30°-45° angle and at least 5 cm from the fistula region, by the same certified hemodialysis nurse. The needle will be secured with hypoallergenic tape. Fifteen minutes after fistula cannulation, outcome measurements will be performed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the State Anxiety Inventory (SAI).